Maine DHHS Says Snap Benefits in November Delayed

Maine residents who receive SNAP benefits can't count on November's funds, due to the government shutdown.

Maine SNAP Recipients' November Funds Affected by the Government Shutdown

The U.S. Department of Agriculture says November's SNAP funding will not be issued to any state in the immediate future because of the government shutdown. There is a chance those funds may be issued later in November, but only if the shutdown ends or the Food and Nutrition Service can find a way around it.

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SNAP is the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program that nearly 170,000 Mainers rely on to fill their pantries and feed their families. Nearly 75% of recipient households in Maine include at least one working adult, more than half include people with a disability, 43% include an older adult, and over one-third include children.

Maine SNAP Recipients Should Plan for No Benefits in November

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services says the average monthly SNAP benefit for a family of four in Maine is $572.00.

Officials say there are a few things SNAP recipients need to know until this situation is resolved.

• Funds already loaded onto EBT cards are still available to use for food.
• Applications, renewals, and other updates are still being accepted and processed by DHHS during the federal shutdown.
• SNAP recipients are advised to rely on food pantries for help until this situation is resolved.
• Officials say SNAP recipients should sign up for E-notices through My Maine Connection, which will keep them apprised of the latest updates.
• Maine residents can get information about resources, like local food pantries, by calling 211, texting their zip code to 898-211, or visiting the 211 Maine website.

Maine Residents Encouraged to Donate Food to Pantries During Shutdown

Mainers who can afford to donate food are encouraged to do so at their local food pantry or cupboard, in November and/or for as long as the SNAP benefits are withheld.

We'll update this story as more details become available.